How to Have Better Style in 2016

How ThredUP is changing my closet for the better.

A few months ago, I watched the documentary The True Cost on Netflix, and it was a bit of an “A-HA moment” for me. I had of course been aware of sustainable fashion efforts, problems with the fast fashion industry, and I was concerned about how my spending habits were affecting my wallet and the planet in general. Other style bloggers have made the switch to sustainable fashion, or at least more thoughtful purchases, and I watched with interest without diving in. I think this documentary, though, was the first time I ever saw a face on the other side of my new pair of jeans. It’s hard to still feel good about a cute top when you know someone’s life is in jeopardy to make it.

The truth is, mass consumerism isn’t healthy for anybody. We don’t need more stuff. The people making these pieces for cheap don’t need the dangerous working conditions and alarming pay rates. So why do we keep buying in? I think, up until now, I’ve continued supporting retailers that I know aren’t sustainable or even ethical because I didn’t know of any alternatives. That all changed when I discovered ThredUP.com. I’ve mentioned them in previous posts before, but the longer I’ve been using their services, the more obsessed I’ve become. The concept is simple: the clothes are like-new condition, on trend, and unbeatable prices. On the flip side, you can also request a “clean out” bag to send away the clothes you’re not wearing for cash. I’ve tried both sides of the coin, and each time it makes me feel warm and fuzzy knowing I’m not encouraging the fast fashion industry. DOUBLE BONUS: ThredUP donates a portion of their proceeds to charity.

Two of my purchases from ThredUP.

I purchased this Trafaluc by Zara top from ThredUP that would have original been around $30, for $7.49. Then I knew I was going to need more shorts for our Cancun travels, so I found SEVEN pairs (including this Banana Republic pair that retails for around $55) for a TOTAL of $0.76 when I included my ThredUP referral discounts. I’ve also sold two separate clean out bags, for an average profit of around $45 each time. Which I can then turn around and spend on more clothes, so I’m basically getting name brand pieces in exchange for stuff I don’t wear any more.

My actual ThredUP Cashout Balance

I’m the first to admit I’m terrible at shopping for deals. And I don’t usually like cheap things. My philosophy generally sticks within the “you get what you pay for” realm. However, in this case, it’s shopping more responsibly, yet I’m still getting access to designer lines like Tory Burch, Club Monaco, Diane Von Furstenberg, and more.

The ONLY downside I can honestly say is the shipping, which takes a bit longer than the glorious Amazon Prime 2-day shipping I’m used to. But they have constant promo codes and deals which basically remove the cost of shipping, so I’m willing to wait a few more days. Besides, isn’t that what this is all about? Slowing down fashion? In the New Year, let’s focus on buying things we LOVE and supporting real people, not giant corporations.

Who’s with me? Join ThredUP right now by clicking here and you’ll get $20 off your first two orders! I’ll get $20 as well, and then we’ll all be on our way to better style, with a better purpose.

Haute in Texas is where savvy public relations meets passionate blogging influence. Owner Aquila Mendez-Valdez splits her time between the Haute in Texas blog and the Haute in Texas public relations consulting business. She writes on fashion, beauty, and motherhood, and helps her clients to achieve their business goals both online and in the community. We’re glad you’re here; come join us in the pursuit of the haute life.